In CPEP research, one of the things people say most helps them in their recovery from post-psychedelic difficulties is 'other people's stories'. This section of the website features interviews with and articles by people who have recovered from severe post-psychedelic difficulties. Thanks to everyone who shared their story and if you're interested in sharing your story, email us at contact@challengingpsychedelicexperiences.com
Recovering from 5meoDMT derealization
Brynja shares what helped her recover from derealization following a difficult 5meoDMT ceremony, and also the ancestral trauma she encountered after an ibogaine ceremony.
My post-MDMA psycho-spiritual crisis
This is the first chapter of Breaking Open, an amazing account by Deborah Martin of her recovery from an MDMA-induced psychological crisis. I recently interviewed Julie about her recovery from an 18-month post-ayahuasca crisis. Julie tells me:
Deborah’s chapter was one of the key elements in helping me regain solid ground in my life, helping me find myself again, and helping me heal. I felt like she was telling my story. Despite all of the differences in the details of our experiences, she was able to write in a way that left me feeling understood, less alone and hopeful. Deborah became a lifeline for me by her willingness to so intimately share her story in the book, and by her selfless, deeply compassionate and encouraging personal communications with me.
Severe anxiety and weight loss after ayahuasca
Julie experienced several months of severe anxiety, weight loss and insomnia after an ayahuasca ceremony. She struggled despite being trained as a counsellor and meditation teacher. Finally, she found the things that helped her recover.